Big Changes Ahead for Cliff Road in Newquay: Have Your Say Before It’s Too Late

Residents and businesses in Newquay are being urged to share their thoughts on the latest proposals to improve safety and public spaces on Cliff Road.

Consultation Now Open

The consultation opened today, Wednesday 15th October, and runs until Friday 7th November. Feedback can be shared via Let’s Talk Cornwall.

Over the past 18 months, Cornwall Council has been working with residents and businesses, making significant design changes in response to feedback. The new proposals form part of the Mid Cornwall Metro project, a £57 million investment aimed at upgrading rail connections between Newquay, St Austell, Truro, and Falmouth/Penryn.

What’s Being Proposed

The plans for Cliff Road include:

• Widened footways with a dedicated segregated cycle lane.

• A new pedestrian crossing outside Rebellion.

• Improved and extended bus stops.

• Relocated loading bays.

• A new car park, free from 4pm to 9am and during the winter months.

• Extended free parking at Newquay Railway Station from 20 to 30 minutes.

• Free on-street parking outside Wetherspoons and on Oakleigh Terrace for up to one hour, including three dedicated disabled parking bays.

The changes aim to make the roads around Newquay Railway Station safer for walkers and cyclists while creating a more welcoming gateway to the town.

Addressing Parking Concerns

Following feedback from local businesses about reduced parking on Cliff Road, the council commissioned a Business Impact Assessment (BIA).

The report found that while on-street parking supports businesses, “high-level analysis indicates that footfall is not heavily dependent on car parking spaces in Cliff Road.” It also concluded that there would be a “significant net gain in parking within the town,” which is “expected to improve accessibility for visitors and residents” and make it easier for customers to access local businesses.

Cornwall Council’s View

Cornwall Council cabinet member for transport, Cllr Dan Rogerson, said:

“These proposals aim not only to make the area safer for all road users, but also provide a welcoming gateway to Newquay. Research has shown the value of the ‘pedestrian pound’ in revitalising high streets and how infrastructure changes such as these can help create a place where people want to spend their time.

“I hope residents and businesses can see how the proposals have evolved as we have taken on board their feedback.”

What Happens Next

The consultation will remain open until 7th November, giving residents and business owners a chance to have their say before the plans move forward.